Eligible KLC employees and affiliated families can pursue bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees online or on campus

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky League of Cities employees and others in the KLC network now have a new avenue to pursue a Kentucky State University education.

The program, called KSU Edge, was unveiled recently at the KBC LEO 2026 Spring Summit in Richmond. Through the new partnership, eligible participants may access tuition support along with added guidance through admissions, registration, and financial aid.

Under the agreement, eligible participants may include Kentucky League of Cities employees, members, employees of member organizations, and certain immediate family members. They may pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees at Kentucky State through online or on-campus options, depending on the program of study and subject to University and program requirements.

Eligible participants under the current agreement may receive a 15 percent tuition discount. The benefit applies to tuition only, while fees and other non-tuition expenses remain the responsibility of the student.

“Kentucky State was founded to expand access and create opportunity, and this partnership does exactly that,” said Kentucky State University President Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo. “It opens another door for city leaders, employees, and their families to advance their education while strengthening the communities they serve.”

“KLC is always pleased to provide opportunities that support our members and the communities they serve,” said Kentucky League of Cities Executive Director/CEO J.D. Chaney. “Programs like KSU Edge make it more affordable for city officials and employees to continue their education, strengthening their leadership and opening new possibilities for their cities.”

“Public service and educational advancement should go hand in hand,” said Dr. Michael D. Dailey, provost and vice president for the Division of Academic and Student Affairs. “This partnership gives eligible participants a clearer, more supported route to the degrees and credentials that can help them grow professionally, support their families, and better serve their communities.”

The initiative is intended to make the path to enrollment more manageable by simplifying key steps in the process and connecting prospective students with added support as they move through admission, registration, and financial aid review.

To enroll through KSU Edge, students will complete Kentucky State University’s standard admissions process and identify their partner affiliation. They may also be asked to provide documentation verifying employment or other eligibility.

Participation in KSU Edge does not guarantee admission. All students must meet University and program requirements.

More information about KSU Edge is available at kysu.edu/ksu-edge and https://www.klc.org/News/13267/KLC-Educational-Partnerships.